Description
The ANA Profile (17 Antigens) is a comprehensive autoimmune panel that tests for 17 specific autoantibodies at once. It is primarily used to diagnose systemic autoimmune diseases like Lupus (SLE), Sjögren’s Syndrome, and Scleroderma. Unlike a basic ANA screen which only says “Positive” or “Negative,” this test pinpoints exactly which antibody is attacking the body.
Overview: Antinuclear Antibodies (ANA) are antibodies that mistakenly attack the nucleus of the body’s own cells. While a standard ANA test (IFA) detects if any of these antibodies are present, it doesn’t always tell you which specific type they are. The Immunoblot (Blot) technique is a sophisticated method that separates and identifies antibodies against 17 distinct antigens simultaneously. This allows for a precise “molecular diagnosis” of the specific autoimmune condition.
Clinical Significance: This panel detects antibodies associated with specific diseases, including:
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dsDNA & Sm: Highly specific for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).
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Ro (SSA) & La (SSB): Associated with Sjögren’s Syndrome and Lupus.
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Scl-70 & Centromere B: Markers for Systemic Sclerosis (Scleroderma).
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Jo-1: Linked to Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis (muscle inflammation).
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RNP: Associated with Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD).
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AMA-M2: Associated with Primary Biliary Cholangitis.
When is this test recommended?
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Confirmation: When a patient has a positive ANA screening result (IFA) and the doctor needs to know the specific cause.
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Symptom Investigation: For patients with complex symptoms like unexplained joint pain, butterfly rash, severe fatigue, dry eyes/mouth, or skin hardening.
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Differentiation: To distinguish between different autoimmune rheumatic diseases that have overlapping symptoms.
Sample Requirements:
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Specimen: Serum (Blood).
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Container: Gold Top (SST) or Red Top Tube.
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Preparation: No special preparation or fasting is required.
